The #1 Reason Your Prayers Feel Stuck (And How Journaling Changes Everything)
The Invisible Ceiling
Imagine this: you're sitting in a quiet room, Bible open, heart full of things you want to say to God. But as soon as you close your eyes to pray, it’s like the words just... disappear. You mumble a few lines, repeat the usual phrases, but deep down, you know it’s not connecting. You wonder if God’s even listening—or if He’s as distant as He feels right now.
I know this feeling because I’ve been there. For years, I felt like my prayers were hitting some kind of invisible ceiling. The more I tried to force it, the more stuck I felt. I started to wonder if there was something wrong with me—was I not spiritual enough? Not faithful enough?
But then I stumbled upon something that completely transformed my prayer life: journaling.
Today, we’re diving into why your prayers might feel stuck, how journaling can unlock a deeper intimacy with God, and what the Bible has to say about writing down your prayers and heart cries to Him. And I promise you, this could be the key to taking your prayer life from stagnant to supernatural.
The Problem with “Routine” Prayers
The Modern-Day Disconnect
Let’s be honest—most of us fall into prayer routines that feel... mechanical. We thank God for the day, ask Him to bless our loved ones, and toss in a request or two for good measure. But something’s missing, isn’t it? The spark, the depth, the feeling that you’re actually pouring your heart out to the Creator of the universe.
The truth is, prayer isn’t just about saying the right words; it’s about connection. And when that connection feels distant, it’s usually a sign of a deeper issue.
Biblical Insight: The Heart of Prayer
In Matthew 6:7-8, Jesus says, “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.”
Here’s the thing—God doesn’t want rehearsed lines or perfect grammar. He wants you. Your raw, unfiltered heart. And if you’re feeling stuck, it could be because you’re holding back.
Why Journaling Changes Everything
A Personal Story: How Journaling Unlocked My Faith
Let me take you back to the season when I felt spiritually dry. I was doing all the “right” things—reading my Bible, praying every day—but it felt more like checking boxes than connecting with God.
One day, a mentor suggested something simple: “Write your prayers down.” I was skeptical. How could writing help when even speaking felt like a struggle? But I gave it a try.
That first journal entry was messy, awkward, and full of half-finished thoughts. But as I kept writing, something incredible happened. My prayers started to flow. I stopped worrying about saying the “right” things and started pouring out my soul. Journaling didn’t just help me express myself—it helped me hear God more clearly.
The Biblical Practice of Writing Prayers
Did you know that many of the prayers in the Bible were written down? The book of Psalms, for example, is essentially King David’s prayer journal.
In Psalm 102:18, it says, “Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.”David didn’t just pray; he recorded his prayers so they could inspire others—and deepen his own faith.
The prophet Habakkuk did the same. In Habakkuk 2:2, the Lord commands, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” Writing isn’t just a practical tool; it’s a biblical one.
How Journaling Deepens Intimacy with God
1. It Slows You Down
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to rush through prayer. Journaling forces you to slow down, process your thoughts, and truly reflect on what you’re saying to God.
2. It Helps You Focus
Ever start praying and suddenly remember the laundry, the email you forgot to send, or that random song stuck in your head? Writing helps eliminate distractions by anchoring your mind to the page.
3. It Creates a Record of God’s Faithfulness
When you write down your prayers, you create a tangible record of your journey with God. Weeks, months, or even years later, you can look back and see how He’s answered your prayers—even in ways you didn’t expect.
4. It Invites Honesty
There’s something about writing that strips away pretenses. On paper, you’re free to admit your fears, doubts, and struggles without worrying about judgment.
Practical Tips for Starting a Prayer Journal
Start Small: Don’t overthink it. Write one sentence or one paragraph—whatever feels manageable.
Be Honest: Write what’s truly on your heart, not what you think you “should” say.
Use Prompts: If you’re stuck, start with a prompt like, “God, today I feel…” or “Thank you for…”
Incorporate Scripture: Write out a verse that speaks to you and use it as a springboard for your prayer.
Keep It Private: This is between you and God. There’s no need to edit or polish your words.
What Happens When You Stick With It
Here’s the beautiful thing about journaling: it’s not just about what you write—it’s about who you become in the process. Over time, you’ll notice your prayers becoming more authentic, your faith growing deeper, and your intimacy with God reaching new heights.
In Lamentations 3:22-23, it says, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
Journaling allows you to experience that newness every day. It turns prayer from a chore into a lifeline, from a ritual into a relationship.
Your Next Step
If your prayers feel stuck, don’t settle for frustration. Grab a notebook, find a quiet spot, and start writing. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real.
And as you write, remember this: God isn’t looking for eloquence. He’s looking for your heart.
Call to Action
This week, I challenge you to start a seven-day journaling journey. Every day, write one prayer—even if it’s just a few sentences. Pay attention to how it shifts your connection with God.
If you need help getting started, visit FaithLabz for free prayer journal templates and tips to deepen your spiritual practice. Let’s move from feeling stuck to stepping into a vibrant, living relationship with God.
We’d Love For You To Join The FaithLabz Family.
That’s it for today’s episode. Remember, your prayers aren’t stuck. They’re just waiting for a new way to flow. Let’s discover it together.
